BBC: Laura Kuenssberg takes over as political editor from Nick Robinson

Laura Kuenssberg is to be the BBC's new political editor, replacing Nick Robinson.(Twitter/Laura Kuenssberg)

Newsnight presenter Laura Kuenssberg is to be the BBC's new political editor, taking over from Nick Robinson, who has held the position for a decade and who is moving to Radio 4's Today Programme.

Italian born Kuenssberg, 38, joined the corporation as a trainee in 2000, becoming a political correspondent three years later. Apart from a brief stint on ITV's News at 10 she has been with the BBC ever since.

"I'm completely delighted and I recognise the responsibility on my shoulders," said Kuenssberg. "It's an honour for me to follow Nick Robinson who has been such an outstanding political editor."

Last week a number of notable BBC presenters and other celebrities including David Attenborough, JK Rowling, Gary Lineker and Daniel Craig sent an open letter defending the Corporation, calling it a " very precious institution."

However, there was further embarrassment for the BBC when it emerged that the letter had actually been organised by the BBC.